Parents argue girls need more protection playing sports

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RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) - Girls lacrosse is a relatively new sport to public high schools in Virginia, but it is one that is gaining in popularity.

Because many students are new to lacrosse, some players don't have the level of experience they might in more traditional sports like softball or soccer. That inexperience has led to injuries.

"One of the concussions messed up the nerve path from my eyes to my brain, so I see stars all the time," 16-year-old lacrosse player Lisa Smith said in an interview scheduled to air Tuesday on CBS 6 News at 11.

Smith has endured four concussions since she started playing lacrosse in 8th grade. After her last one concussion, she started wearing what is commonly called a "soft helmet."

Lisa's father Mark Smith would like his daughter to have more protection when she plays. He would like to see her wear full protective helmets, like the one's worn in the boys game. But girls are not allowed to wear those types of helmets.

Tonight on CBS 6 News at 11, sports director Lane Casadonte investigates why full protective helmets are not allowed in the girl's game.